A visit to the church that started my RU-vid career... 😊 Donate to support my work: www.paypal.com... PATREON: patreon.com/Be... 😎 Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram....
All these villages used to be teeming with the lives of many different cottage industries and trades. Carpenter, blacksmith, miller, Cooper, barber etc. All gone now. My grandfather was one of those lost breed. Replaced by stockbrokers wives, labradoodles and celebrity weekenders. The church that supported those communities largely redundant. The farmers and their labourer's are all thats left. A healthy church smells of fresh cut flower's and has a welcoming feel. But when neglected that smell changes. All thats left is the memories. Perhaps in these perilous times the English will take refuge from the corrupted cities and rebuild the life that was lost. Sanctuary from the darkness and corruption.
And did those feet in ancient time, Walk upon England's mountains green: And was the holy Lamb of God, On England's pleasant pastures seen! And did the Countenance Divine, Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here, Among these dark Satanic Mills? Bring me my Bow of burning gold: Bring me my Arrows of desire: Bring me my Spear: O clouds unfold: Bring me my Chariot of fire! I will not cease from Mental Fight, Nor shall my Sword sleep in my hand: Till we have built Jerusalem, In England's green & pleasant Land.
@@cs3742 Blake nailed it with that poem. It's obvious Jesus did live in the UK. It's why the essence of his teachings was never succesfully corrupted by the Catholic Church or that cynical pretender St Paul. Live a natural life in balance with your community and you are living as a Christian. Love brings people together. Hate tears people apart.
Eloquent heart-filled REQUEST set before THE MOST HIGH! Perfect declaration to initiate the imperative need to renew, and to revitalise the old crafts, thereby rebirthing dignity through the creative harmony of mind, hands, spirit and body, creatively and wisely, employed. 😊❤❤❤❤😊
I'm not even remotely religious, nor a believer, but even I can appreciate this sentiment. Thank you for voicing it. In the words of the late Dave Allen, "May Your God Go With You".
As an American I suppose my perspective is a bit different, because we aren't surrounded by all the history, culture and traditions as the British are. When I made the Wainwright Coast to Coast trek across Cumbria and Yorkshire October 2022, I was completely taken away by all I came across; I spent eighteen days hiking from village to village, some little more than a street with a few buildings, a church and a pub...but it was all so ancient, yet still alive. What we really impressed me were all the little village churches, especially those that were still functioning as parish churches, and the graveyards, and the monuments to the fallen heroes of the First World War. Sorry for the endless blabber, just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate your videos/podcasts, because you never fail to pass on the history and traditions of the churches and their villages each time. Cheers and keep on doing the good work.
Just as Alfred Wainwright was a superb writer who beautifully illustrated the scenery of Cumbria and Yorkshire, Ben Maton is a superb organist, historian and film maker. We are fortunate to be able to appreciate and enjoy their masterpieces 🇬🇧🛐❤
You have certainly become "must" viewing for me; especially anticipating what now appears to be a weekly Sunday offering & presentation. As I have stated many times before, I am in awe of your musical talents, and your strong sense for both historical research & visual imagery. In total, you excel as a "story teller". This offering was exceptionally interesting in how you explained the "nuts" & "bolts" of your creative process & the musical preparation involved in your videos. It's both inspiring & magical. I am so glad to be among your growing list of patreon supporters. Ending this offering with the complete rendition of your "Postlude for Mechanical Action" was a "treat"! Thank you! This is Peter M; out!
As a modest organist at my parish church for over 20 years, I much appreciate your videos, mainly set in such lush greenery. Your ‘Peace’ captures it all. Yours is a vocation. Thank you for saying ‘yes’. I thank God for your giftedness and willingness to share it. Blessings - a nostalgic 86 year old!
Pink Floyd were doubtless influenced by Bach and other classical composers. I remember as a youngster being taken with the marvellous sound of the organ on A Saucerful of Secrets. It probably inspired many kids to learn keyboards.
Film maker, story teller, narrator, video editor, lighting expert, sound engineer, composer and a passion for all you do. Oh, and a pretty darn good organist too. Love your channel, style and approach. Long may you be able to continue. Thank you. 🙏
You were born to do this, Ben. I'm glad you call these episodes "films," because they really are. And they would stand alone as art years from now, whether RU-vid is here or not.
Across the UK we are blessed by having many beautiful ancient churches and much countryside. We must ensure they survive and are not consumed by economic growth and mass development.
You know what really amazes me is that Ben got up to Grade 8 in two years. That's an incredible achievement. It's a while since I've done those exams but of a possible 150 marks you need 100 to pass. At least that's how it was in the 1970s and I'm pretty sure it hasn't changed much. I got as far as Grade 8 theory Grade 7 piano and Grade 6 viola. For the piano exam I seem to remember practicing an hour each day. Very rusty now though tbh I've a lot of respect for you Ben. Not only are you an ex̌cellent musician you come across to me as having a very pleasant personality
Yes. I have no personal experience of passing those tests but I can imagine the amount of work and determination it took. My sons were into school and skateboarding at that age. And I can assure you that the majority of effort went into fun rather than education! They both went on to successful careers!
Well... the higher grades I did when I finished school and when I was working before going off to college. I'd hoped to join an orchestra and I got up to viola Grade 6 in about 4 years. After two of those someone suggested I join a local orchestra which I did. It was scary at first tbh but there's a lot of camaraderie in amateur orchestra and a lot of fun. The piano and indeed organ can be quite a lonely instrument. Unfortunately I play very little these days. I just seem to get tired very easily by late afternoon and don't want to go out in the evenings Ben is IMO very talented, no doubt about that but he's also a determined and very focused person. Behind that pleasant persona lies a will of steel. I feel rather privileged to have found this site
Thank you Sir Benjamin as always. Really enjoyed the "behind the scenes footage and demos" and your own composition "Postlude for "Mechanical Action" is absolutely magnificent. 🎹
"The ultimate in English pastoral scenery" you say, and I think you are not far wrong there! Southern England at its most peaceful and idyllic. Great footage. 👏👍
Your aesthetic sensibility is remarkable ! You can point out and describe beauty in things and places that less poetic people like myself could never do. Thank you again for removing your beard. It was like a mask that hid your youthful charm and grace that all your viewers so love !
As one who enjoys the mighty pipe organs, I have become a fan of yours. Living in the U.S., I don't see the scenery or old churches with the interesting pipe organs that you have there. If I had the resources, I would plan a trip to England to see some of those places and to meet you in person. I enjoyed this behind the scenes tour. Keep up the good work!
"....I've learned to contain my head movements since then" Don't hold back. You're expressing music with your whole being of mind, body and spirit. No apologies. My best performance comes when I "bob & weave".
Ye holy angels bright who wait at God’s right hand. Alvediston was the genesis of Ben’s unique journey in cyberspace during which he has entranced more than a million viewers with music and poetry, wit and wisdom aided by a Viscount organ and a harmonium. Bach, Mendelssohn and Mussorgsky would all be beyond proud of him!
The last 24 hours have been extremely chaotic here in the USA and I've been glued to the TV non-stop. I needed a break! Right on cue Ben's latest video pops up. The timing was perfect as was the glorious music. I too am an ELP fan along with Floyd, and Procol Harum. You have good taste in your Progressive Rock library. Thank you for the break in the insanity of the day.
Hello Ben ... As an occasional Paypal supporter of all your videos the following is how they have changed my life. From depression a year ago from advancing age and probable inability ever to see England again, I now look forward, every Monday morning in Australia to your uplifting church visits and organ playing. An interesting (?) side note. On D-Day 6th June this year a curious thing happened. But firstly, on the original D-Day 70 years ago I was an 8 year old in my first school in The Potteries in Staffordshire. Young Englishmen your age and that of your brother were landing on the Normandy beaches, with the American and Canadian forces, with the aim of liberating Europe and in the process defeating and if need be killing as many young and older Germans as necessary who stood in their way. Many on the Allied side died in the process, as we remember every year. This year, 70 years later, on 6th June I was approached by the parent of a school student in the 2nd last year of school to tutor the German language. I created about 100 sentences in English for translation purposes, about visiting Berlin, Cologne, Dresden and Nuremberg among other German places of interest, as the student and a parent are planning a visit to Germany. (So much better than fighting !!). Today seeking a further topic of interest I have selected the English transcript from your video, which your Channel and You Tube kindly provide with English and German sub-titles. I hope your productive peacetime project will generate further interest in all that you are providing, not the least being the works of so German composers.
Ben, from Organ Zero to Distinction at 8th grade in two years is an almighty musical performance accomplishment. Keep up the good work and hopefully you will become London Town Hall organist in good time too. Cheers
I was rather amused with the beginning of this video - since I live in "Avon, Indiana, USA", and my middle name is "Earl", so I guess that makes me the "Earl of Avon" in a manner of speaking, over here. I feel SO "important". Just having a little fun, here. I have loved these organ videos for some time, now.
I discovered your channel about 2 weeks ago and have watched EVERY video since then. As a current university student, you’ve most definitely re inspired and reminded me of my childhood listening to beautiful piano and organ music in church. Ive come to look forward to all of your uploads, and I can’t wait for the recital!
The 1970’s were blessed by music produced by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, plus Renaissance. They made organ music popular with millions of young people. Annie Haslam became the Goddess of progressive rock. She continues to produce amazing music and art from her home in America age 77. Last year I had the absolute pleasure of attending a Hans Zimmer concert at the O2 Arena. He has cleverly combined classical and modern music. I look forward to attending Ben Maton concerts at the same venue 🎹🎶🇬🇧
Please never apologise for head movements, it reflects the depth and passion of the artist that is engrossed in the music. Thank you for showing us the real you, and not just the performing side.
I totally agree. I am an organist too (and pianist) and tend to move when I play. I tried to lessen it myself because I didn't like the way it looked when I saw it on a video, but that really is the music and the passion coming out of you. The one thing I still fight though and have not conquered is making a face when I hit a wrong note!
It is so kind of you to share your background and the behind-the-scenes work. I was intrigued by the stoplist of the instrument. It is very specific, I think your program will be a triumph.
Early Monday morning greeting,Ben, from county Wicklow the garden of Ireland 🇮🇪☘️. Great similarities with your beautiful English countryside. After the highs and lows of Sunday sport and events in the US you took us to another haven of rest and peace. Thank you for sharing what the Lord has gifted you. Blessings, Father Noel.
The pigeons there speak the same one-liner as mine at home. They drive me crazy by telling me over and over, 'It's all so stupid' - 'it's all so stupid'. On a more upbeat note, your composition ticks all of the boxes and should become a standard for all organists.
10:37 The swell pedal problem is probably caused a small filament light bulb having blown. It uses a light sensor (ldr ) to adjust the volume. Moving the pedal slides a mask between the lamp and the sensor. This adjusts the amount of light that falls on the sensor. The change in resistance of the sensor acts like a volume knob on the amplifier.
@@SalisburyOrganist yes I’ve done a few including my own analog organ now converted to digital. And they are always hard to get to - easy to fix. Love your videos by the way. So good to see small and unique organs showcased with suitable music.
One shouldn’t have to think about one’s head when fingers and feet are so gainfully employed with the organ, I must say. I very much enjoy your tours, and hearing historic organs in Ancient places. You are an excellent organist and always perform delicious music on historic organs in beautiful settings of the British Countryside. You are admired and appreciated! From one lifelong musician to another, thank you, and I look forward to more beautiful organ music in future.
Gran reportaje Ben disfrute de tus lecciones magistrales y tus interpretaciones músicales gracias maestro, rescatar estos espacios divinos es digno de admiración pienso que Jesús estará contento con tu comportamiento ejemplar. Un abrazo para ti Ben y tus colaboradores por extensión también a los amigos y suscriptores de tu canal.😊❤
Postlude for Mechanical Action has become such a familiar tune. Ben, I hope that if you ever plan and perform a concert (Bristol?) that this composition would be included. Love the details of your ventures, including showing us the birdproof gate and the way it opens/shuts 😄 as well as all the footpaths in the English countryside that you seem to take us along with you.
Your organ presentations are wonderful. I am a priest in The Episcopal Church, the American branch of the Anglican Communion and an amateur organist. Love your work.
I love the “Promenade” and am looking forward to hearing it on your concert video! The “Postlude” is indeed stirring! Thanks for playing the complete piece! Wonderful composition!
All your videos are very good, but this one, to me, is the best yet: a bit of history, beautiful scenery, magnificent music and introduction to your practice organ. I'm starting to realize the considerable work/thought which go into preparation for your videos.
Mr. Maton, thank you for the beautiful videos and music. I look forward to each new one you post. I appreciate you taking the time to video the surrounding farms and fields at each venue and the history of each congregation including tombstones of famous or interesting people associated with the church. I find a sense of close kinship with the surrounding farms and countryside along with the beautiful architecture of the church buildings. I attribute this to the fact that my mother was born and raised in England and that I have numerous cousins residing in the UK. My mother meet my father during WWII, accepted his proposal of marriage close to the end of the war and came to the US in 1946. She and my father were married upon her arrival in July 1946. She passed away a couple of years ago. Needless to say, while we never lived in the UK and I have never visited the UK, I was raised in an English household, taught English history and customs, and schooled in English literature. As a result, I acquired a love for her country, and have always felt a special attachment to England. Your videos give me a view of England that I have not previously had. Thank you! I look forward to more of your splendid music and peaceful videos.
Again thank you Ben for another excellent 👍 video I do look forward to so forward to your wonderful playing the organs which you do love playing in the old churches till next time take care 😊
Thank you for your playing and especially your choice of music. All Hail the Power of Jesus's name was a particular joy, taking me back to my days as a chorister - what a wonderfully inspiring hymn - thank you - every blessing, Stewart.
I thoroughly enjoyed hearing "Postlude for Mechanical Action" in its entirety. It's brilliant! I also very much enjoyed hearing your thought processes in how you choose what to play and how you prepare. "All Hail the Pow'r of Jesus' Name" is a personal favorite, and you played it absolutely beautifully. Thank you for another spectacular video!
Diadem was written by James Ellor in Droylsden, East Manchester, in 1838, for what it's worth. Thanks for the back-and-forth commentary on this lovely Church, St Mary's in Alvediston
As an American of Virginia decent I can relate to this passion for small country churches. Although they are no way as ancient as some of these our countryside is dotted with many small historic parish churches. My friends and I have been seeking out some of these churches on short day trips around Virginia. Many are vibrant places of worship and a beacon of activity in the community. Watching your videos brings me great joy and solace. Thank you for your passion
The mighty instrument enters my life three times each Sunday and I can feel my soul enlarge. The first is “Music and the Spoken Word,”followed our local Grantsville 11th Ward organ (Utah, USA), and lastly in English countryside churches with Ben Maton at the keyboard. Each one delights and enhances my Sabbath.
Grantsville Utah, a patch of green surrounded by desert. Dry mountains purple in the distance, miles and miles of dusty sage. Redwing blackbirds perched on tules in the salt marshes. Air so dry it shimmers in the heat. The lovely green fields of rural England must look like heaven to you. They certainly do to me.
I am so thankful for your videos and the talents that God has given you (and your brother)! I am always amazed at how beautiful you play and the pieces you write. You are truly blessed and bless us all. I always feel so peaceful while watching. Thank you!!
Ben, many thanks for yet another tremendously well constructed and thoughtfully presented vignette and obitur dictum of organic resonance and melodious harmonics in damp but beautiful and serene sanctuaries of peace, reflection and enlightenment. Splendid: every last drop, note, thought and cadence. 😊
On your practice organ swell pedals, especially since the problem happens then fixes itself, I think I know the problem. The pedals turn potentiometers (I looked at a schematic for a different but similar organ by Viscount, so I'm pretty sure about this), or pots, which are basically electrical knobs that change the amount of current. Very likely those pots are either dirty or worn. You could try spraying contact cleaner in to them if it's just a dirt problem. If that doesn't work, replacement is probably relatively easy. Viscount is still in business and seems to be pretty good about getting their engineers to identify and send out parts. You seem pretty handy, and it would likely be a matter of a few screws and some easy soldering.
Hi Ben. Just a suggestion, but - since you're including "Ye holy angels" - you could do much worse than finishing with Percy Whitlock's Prelude on Darwall's 148th... 🙂
Thank you Ben for another superb video. I was especially intrigued by your wonderful Visount organ. Its amazing ! I have a Viscount Legend JDF with the 25 note pedal board and twin Hurricane Cabinets. I can make as much noise as I can up here in the remote Scottish Highlands. Keep up the good work ! Great Videos indeed !
Ben, Thank You for another really good presentation. I generally dislike the sounds of an electronic organ, but in this case, your home organ has a very nice rather rich sound that is easy to listen to, but still, there's nothing like hearing wind blowing through pipes. As a reed organ restorer, I very much like the sound of reeds producing their sound by the wind passing through them....when they are actually tuned correctly, otherwise it's like fingernails on a chalkboard. I wish I had your same talent.
Before they were Catholic they were Holy sites of the so called " Pagans". People who revered and lived in harmony with nature instead of burning innocent women and genociding anyone who did not agree with Catholic dogma. My church has an ancient Yew tree. It was there long before the site was desecrated by monks who stole land from the people and twisted everything Jesus taught.
"Darwall's 148th," the tune to "Ye Holy Angels Bright," is the tune we generally use in the United Methodist Church for "Rejoice the Lord Is King." Lovely hymn.
I enjoyed listening to the complete version of Postlude' again. Its quite a majestic piece of music. I'd love to hear it played on one of our great Cathedral organs, Ben.......
